Alden B. Dow – East Grand Rapids

During a recent bike ride, I discovered a masterpiece by mid-century wunderkind Alden B. Dow. Nestled deep in a wooded lot against a lake, little can be seen of this home from the road. As one approaches the home, its planar expanses begin to reveal themselves from obstruction. A true organic architectural form, its style recalls that of Dow’s master tutor, Frank Lloyd Wright.

I had the chance of speaking to the owner briefly to gauge her interest in being involved in  my project. Alas, the circumstances weren’t very conducive for sharing ideas, so I sent her a letter today as a follow-up. I’m really hoping the letter will spark her interest, as it seems her beautiful home is a time-capsule of the finest in mid-century-modern furnishings and design.

In the meantime, I leave you with an image I shot of Alden B. Dow’s own home and studio, which I had the extreme pleasure of touring last summer with my grandmother and a good friend. Surrounded by a flood-proof moat, one can literally exit through patio doors and walk on water, thanks to abundant stepping-stones. Upon entering the building, steps lead down like a waterfall into a semi-submerged conference area, which is seen at the end of the sloping roof on the right.

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3 Responses to Alden B. Dow – East Grand Rapids

  1. Kristofer says:

    In my view, it would be nice all website owners and bloggers would write good content as you did, the net would be a lot more useful than ever before.

  2. Walter says:

    Midland MI, no where near Grand Rapids

    • tylermerkel says:

      Hi Walter. While the image referenced in this post is indeed of the Alden B. Dow home and Studio in Midland, the entry is actually about the Keeler residence in Grand Rapids. Alden Dow designed other buildings in Grand Rapids as well, including the Dick house and the chapel inside Fountain Street Church.

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